Orange chicken is a delicious dish that is perfect for any time of the year. This dish is made with a tangy orange sauce that is paired with crispy fried chicken. In this article, we will show you how to make orange chicken, from the ingredients needed to the kitchen tools required. We’ll also provide step-by-step instructions on how to cook orange chicken to make sure that it comes out perfectly every time. Let’s get started!
Ingredients Needed to Make Orange Chicken Recipe
To make orange chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup flour
- 2 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp. ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp. cornstarch
- 1 tbsp. water
- 2 tbsp. green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tbsp. sesame seeds (optional)
For the Marinade Orange Chicken Recipe
Before we start cooking, we need to marinate the chicken. Here’s how:
- In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, chicken broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Set aside.
- Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
Kitchen Tools Needed Orange Chicken Recipe
To make orange chicken, you will need the following kitchen tools:
- Large bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large skillet or wok
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
How to Make Orange Chicken Recipe
Now that we have our ingredients and kitchen tools ready, let’s start cooking:
- In a large bowl, whisk together cornstarch, flour, salt, and black pepper.
- Dip each chicken piece in the beaten eggs, then coat with the flour mixture.
- Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces in batches and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate.
- In a small saucepan, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth. Add the remaining marinade and cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the fried chicken to the skillet or wok and pour the sauce over it. Toss to coat the chicken in the sauce.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve hot with rice or vegetables.
How to Cook Orange Chicken Recipe
Now that you know how to make orange chicken, let’s talk about how to cook it:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Place the fried orange chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until it is heated through.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the orange chicken in the microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until it is heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as chicken thighs take longer to cook.
2. How long can I marinate the chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours. Do not marinate for too long as the acid in the marinade can break down the chicken and make it mushy.
3. Can I make orange chicken without frying it?
Yes, you can make orange chicken without frying it. You can bake the chicken in the oven or cook it in an air fryer for a healthier version of the dish.
4. Can I use bottled orange juice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bottled orange juice for this recipe. However, freshly squeezed orange juice will give the dish a more vibrant orange flavor.
5. Can I make orange chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can make orange chicken ahead of time. Store the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in the oven or microwave before serving.
6. Can I freeze orange chicken?
Yes, you can freeze orange chicken. Store the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
7. Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, you can use a different type of vinegar such as white vinegar or apple cider vinegar. However, rice vinegar will give the dish a more authentic flavor.
8. Can I use a different type of sugar?
Yes, you can use a different type of sugar such as granulated sugar or honey. However, brown sugar will give the sauce a richer flavor.
9. Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Yes, you can add vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snow peas to the dish. Just make sure to cook them separately and add them to the sauce at the end.
10. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and soy sauce. Make sure to check the labels of all the ingredients to ensure that they are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Orange chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can make restaurant-quality orange chicken in the comfort of your own home. Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make this dish your own. Enjoy!